Peak Downs Highway fatal crash: Driver dead

Police have confirmed a Townsville man has died in a two-vehicle crash west of Mackay with forensic officers now investigating the scene. Read the latest.

A 28-year-old Townsville man lost his life in a fatal crash at Coppabella on November 9, 2022. Picture: 7News Mackay

Police have confirmed a 28-year-old male driver has died following a ‘tragic’ two car crash west of Mackay.

A trauma rescue helicopter team as well as paramedics and police were called to the scene along the Peak Downs Highway near Coppabella about 140km west of Mackay about 6.10am.

The Queensland Police Service statement said the deceased male driver was from Gulliver in Townsville.

“Initial information indicates a Ford Focus and Toyota HiLux were travelling on Peak Downs Highway when a rear-end end collision occurred,” the statement said.

A 28-year-old Townsville man lost his life in a fatal crash at Coppabella on November 9, 2022. Picture: 7News Mackay

“The 28-year-old man sustained critical injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

“The driver of the other vehicle, a 39-year-old Proserpine woman, was not physically injured.

“Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances of the crash.”

The crash occurred about 6.10am on the Peak Downs Highway near Coppabella. Picture: 7News Mackay

A RACQ CQ Rescue statement earlier said its helicopter crew had attended the “horrific” crash with a doctor and critical care paramedic on board.

“The trauma team treated a critically injured driver and performed CPR,” the statement said.

“A woman driver suffered minor injuries and was flown back to Mackay in a stable condition.”

The highway was closed in both directions and reopened about noon.

The QPS is appealing for anyone with information to come forward, quoting reference number: QP2201929527